Brussels, 29/03/2012 (Agence Europe) - EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton is fearful of violence in Guinea-Bissau and has called for restraint to be shown. The call comes as the second round of voting in the presidential election is being prepared against a background of allegations of fraud in the first round on 18 March, which was deemed fair, free and transparent by African observers from the ECOWAS and their international counterparts.
“The High Representative is concerned about a number of worrying events, including the killing of a former Deputy Chief of Intelligence in Bissau, which highlights the risk of further instability in the country. The High Representative urges the authorities to assume their responsibilities and ensure the security of all citizens, in full compliance with national and international law. She urges the national authorities and all political groups to prove their sense of responsibility by refraining from any form of violence or threats”, says a press release published by Ashton's spokesperson on 28 March. Ashton calls for the next phases of the electoral process to take place in a transparent and peaceful environment, in strict compliance with existing laws and in full respect of human rights. In the first round, former Guinea Prime Minister Carlos Gomes topped the poll, ahead of former President Kumba Yala. (AN/transl.rt)